U.S. snowboarder Jackie Hernandez suffers concussion in qualifying

SOCHI, Russia -- Olympic newcomer Jackie Hernandez sustained a concussion when she crashed in her opening run of snowboard cross qualifying on Sunday morning here at Rosa Khutor Extreme Park.

Hernandez was able to return to the venue later in the afternoon to watch her U.S. teammates compete. Faye Gulini made the final and finished fourth while veteran Lindsey Jacobellis, who was one of the favorites, crashed in the semifinals and won the consolation final.

After the scary-looking spill, Hernandez was treated at the venue’s medical tent, according to a statement by U.S. Ski and Snowboard Assn.

The 21-year-old from Vermont had to be taken off the course on a stretcher, which has been an all-too-common sight at this venue through the first week of the Olympics.

Hernandez took the spill as she caught some big air coming off a jump when she landed hard, twisted and turned before coming to a stop. She was motionless on the course before medical personnel arrived.

Medal favorite Helene Olafsen of Norway was also taken off the course on a stretcher following a crash.

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